BMW CE 02 vs. Felo FW-06 - Electric Comparison

In the world of touring bikes, something like this would probably be called a crossover: a bike that moves between the traditional classes of motorcycle construction. In the electric category, such a term hasn't been established yet, which is why manufacturers come up with their own names. BMW calls the CE 02 an "eParkourer," while Felo simply calls the FW-06 a "new concept." The common ground, however, clearly lies in the fact that neither of the two electric vehicles fits into the category of scooters or naked bikes - they're something of a hybrid. If you want to know more about the individual bikes, you'll find our extensive tests here:

• BMW CE 02 11kW Test Report
• Felo FW-06 Test Report

Both electric vehicles fall under the A1 license class, meaning they can also be ridden with the B-111 (AT) and B-196 (DE) license extensions. Their maximum power output is therefore 11 kW each, and the rated power is almost identical at 5 kW for the Felo and 6 kW for the BMW. The torque at the crankshaft is also similar between the two electric vehicles: the CE 02 produces 55 Nm of torque, while the FW-06 narrowly beats it with 58 Nm. Riding performance in an urban environment is therefore very similar, with both bikes also scoring points for their smooth throttle response and traction control.

When it comes to top speed, however, things get interesting. BMW electronically limits the CE 02 to 95 km/h. On the Felo FW-06, it's theoretically capped at 90 km/h - unless you use the boost button on the handlebar. This unleashes the full power and results in a top speed of up to 125 km/h. Of course, that costs battery power, but the Chinese machine has more of that to spare as well.

At first glance you'd hardly believe it, but the FW-06 manages to pack more battery capacity into its wheelbase, which is 113 mm shorter. The Felo's fixed unit offers a capacity of 5.6 kWh, which according to the manufacturer should be good for a range of 120 to 140 kilometers. The BMW CE 02, larger in dimensions, on the other hand offers only a capacity of 3.92 kWh, which is said to enable a range of around 90 kilometers. At least the BMW's batteries can be removed.

Both BMW and Felo target, among others, beginners and car drivers who now want to switch to a motorized two-wheeler. Accordingly, they offer a certain level of safety equipment. Both e-bikes come with traction control and an ABS system at the front - but unfortunately only at the front. This means there's a risk of the rear wheel locking up in poor road and weather conditions. Especially in an urban environment full of road markings, cobblestones, and perhaps even tram tracks, this can lead to dangerous situations in an emergency. But ultimately one must consider that this equipment isn't mandatory in the A1 class, which is why manufacturers can cut costs at this actually critical point.

Fast and economical to work and back home again. Both electric vehicles feel at home on short distances and will likely be used by their owners mostly for commuting. Nevertheless, the BMW CE 02 surprises with its high-quality chassis, which glides over cobblestones with ease. Of course, the CE 02 isn't the cheapest A1 bike, but such a good-natured chassis is rarely seen in the 125cc class. Where the BMW scores with comfort, the Felo FW-06 catches up with storage space. Although the compartment under the seat is only enough to stow small items, it's still more than the storage-less BMW offers. We even find a glove compartment with a USB charging option on the Felo, while the BMW offers a USB-C charging port on the handlebar.

In addition, BMW's CE 02 offers a long seat bench and two sets of footpegs for the rider, allowing the seating position to be freely chosen. Felo's FW-06, on the other hand, dictates a seating position with its compact rider's seat, which could be uncomfortable for tall riders due to the acute knee angle.

You'll find the charging times for the CE 02 and FW-06 in the table above, but how do you charge the two vehicles? Both BMW and Felo are charged at a household socket using the supplied charger. The Germans offer a fast charger as an original accessory, which raises the charging power from 0.9 kW to 1.5 kW. For easy public charging, Felo instead offers a Type 2 adapter - a plug that's also frequently used at wallboxes. If you like to store your batteries in a warm apartment over winter, you can count yourself lucky with the BMW: on the CE 02, they can be removed.

In Austria and Germany, the Felo is available for 6,450 euros. In Switzerland, it's likewise available for CHF 6,450, with a Rookie discount of CHF 500 offered for riders under 18. The Felo FW-06 is only available in one trim level, so it can only be customized through its available colors.

If you want to own the CE 02, the entry price of CHF 7,700 is already noticeably higher. If you also want the Highline package with heated grips, a third riding mode, cool design, and more, you can add CHF 1,020. At CHF 8,710, the BMW eParkourer is anything but a bargain, but it also offers more bike than the Felo.

Not a motorcycle, not a scooter - but electric. This aspect is shared by BMW's and Felo's approach to urban electric mobility in the A1 class. In practice, however, the Felo proves to be a Swiss Army knife, coping with every task. A workhorse whose compact dimensions fit perfectly into the city and suit anyone who has never owned a motorized two-wheeler.

With its somewhat bulkier dimensions, some prior experience with motorized two-wheelers certainly doesn't hurt on the BMW CE 02. It particularly impresses with its high chassis comfort and variable seating position - tall riders will have no trouble finding their fit here. The CE 02 delivers an absolute premium feel, for which you also have to pay. Which bike better suits your own lifestyle will probably have to be figured out with a test ride.